Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

Carrot cake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style, but when you turn it into muffins with a rich cream cheese filling, it elevates the experience to a whole new level. These Carrot Cake Muffins are moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. The addition of the cream cheese filling adds a delightful surprise that is sure to please your taste buds. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious muffins that are a hit at any gathering!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling are not just your average muffins; they are packed with the flavors of traditional carrot cake, including warm spices and sweet shredded carrots. The cream cheese filling provides a creamy, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the sweetness of the muffins. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a delightful snack throughout the week. Trust me, once you try these muffins, they will become a regular addition to your baking repertoire!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups shredded carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)

How To Make Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start baking, gather all your ingredients. Make sure to have your cream cheese out to soften, as it will be easier to mix when it’s at room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This will ensure that your leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the muffins.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined. Then stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Gently fold in the shredded carrots and, if you’re using them, the chopped nuts.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon a small amount of the muffin batter into each muffin liner, filling only about one-third of the way full. Next, add a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling on top of the batter. Then, cover the cream cheese filling with more muffin batter, filling each cup about three-quarters full.

Step 7: Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These muffins are best enjoyed warm, but they also store well for later!

Expert Tips

• Be sure to grate your carrots finely for the best texture in your muffins.
• Using freshly grated carrots adds moisture and flavor, so avoid using pre-packaged shredded carrots if possible.
• Don’t skip the cream cheese filling—it makes these muffins truly special!
• For a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cloves to your spice mix.

Variations and Customizations

• Add raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture contrast.
• Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
• Try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Add a pinch of orange zest for a citrusy twist on the classic flavors.

How to Store Leftovers

These Carrot Cake Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the muffins. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

While cream cheese is classic for this recipe, you can experiment with mascarpone for a richer flavor, but the texture will be different.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Be sure to choose a blend that works well in baking.

What can I substitute for the eggs?

You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) as a substitute for eggs.

How can I make these muffins lower in sugar?

You can reduce the amount of sugar used in the batter and filling by 1/4 cup each and use ripe mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce to add natural sweetness without the calories from sugar.

Conclusion

These Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling are truly a labor of love that yields delicious results. With their delightful combination of warm spices, sweet carrots, and creamy filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or at a brunch gathering, these muffins will impress everyone at the table. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking! Enjoy each bite of these moist, delicious muffins that perfectly blend comforting flavors with a touch of decadence. Happy baking!